A segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying and its control method

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of food cooking equipment technology, and in particular to a segmented independent stirring system and its control method for continuous stir-frying. The segmented independent stirring system includes a rotating scraper, a lever mechanism, and a motor. Multiple rotating scrapers are mounted on the rotating main shaft of a cylindrical cooking container. The lever mechanism connects the rotating scrapers. The motor provides power to the lever mechanism. A conductive slip ring provides power to the motor. The rotating scrapers are adjusted by the lever mechanism to stir-fry and transfer the food ingredients. The rotating scrapers and lever mechanism control the residence time of the ingredients in each area, precisely controlling and changing the stir-frying time and rate at each stage. Finally, the finished dish is output through the outlet. The entire process requires no manual intervention; only different recipes need to be set to automatically produce delicious dishes. The system achieves segmented adaptive adjustment of the scraper angle, allowing for precise control and change of the stir-frying time and rate at each stage during the cooking process, resulting in delicious dishes.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of food cooking equipment technology, and in particular to a segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] Cooking is the process of heat processing food ingredients, transforming raw food into cooked food through heat and mass transfer. Chinese cooking methods mainly include various techniques such as pan-frying, stir-frying, deep-frying, braising, quick-frying, sautéing, steaming, stewing, and boiling. Among these, stir-frying is the most widely used cooking method, accounting for over 70% of the more than 18,000 Chinese dishes. Stir-frying uses a small amount of oil as a heat transfer medium, rapidly heating and cooking the ingredients at different temperatures and times, and then seasoning them. Its characteristics are high temperature, short time, and quick cooking, which maximizes the preservation of the ingredients' nutrients. Furthermore, during stir-frying, different ingredients and seasonings interact in heat and mass transfer, resulting in internal changes such as protein oxidation and denaturation, component interactions, and structural disruption, which contribute to the creation of delicious, tender, and nutritionally balanced dishes.

[0003] With the accelerating pace of modern life, the demand for large-scale catering has increased. In recent years, the centralized cooking and standardized meal preparation methods of central kitchens have been widely adopted, and pre-prepared food technology has gradually become known to the public. Currently, the equipment commonly used in central kitchens for cooking Chinese food includes large jacketed kettles, planetary woks, and rotary woks. These devices are still in the stage of batch cooking and intermittent operation, especially since both feeding and discharging require manual intervention, making continuous cooking impossible. Existing continuous cooking equipment is mostly used in nut and seed processing equipment, employing scrapers or spiral blades as the stirring mechanism. However, these scrapers or spiral blades are often integrated, resulting in a rigid and mechanical structure. They cannot intelligently adjust the angle, speed, and spatial position according to the ingredients, making it impossible to precisely control and change the cooking time and rate for different ingredients at each stage. This hinders the precise realization of intelligent cooking, ultimately affecting the quality stability and consumer acceptance of industrialized dishes, and consequently impacting business profits. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a segmented independent stirring system and its control method for continuous stir-frying, which solves the shortcomings of existing cooking equipment, such as rigid stirring mechanisms, difficulty in intelligently adjusting angles, speeds and spatial positions, and inability to accurately control and change the stir-frying time and rate of different ingredients at each stage, resulting in poor taste of the final dish and affecting the diners' experience. The invention achieves segmented adaptive adjustment of the scraper angle of the stir-frying mechanism to achieve segmented control of stir-frying time and rate.

[0005] This invention provides a segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying, comprising a rotating scraper, a pull rod mechanism, a motor, and a conductive slip ring. Multiple rotating scrapers are mounted on the rotating main shaft of a cylindrical cooking container, and the multiple rotating scrapers are segmented on the rotating main shaft to form segmented stirring within the cylindrical cooking container. The pull rod mechanism connects to the rotating scrapers; the motor is connected to the pull rod mechanism and provides power to the pull rod mechanism; the conductive slip ring is fixed to the rotating main shaft and provides power to the motor.

[0006] According to the segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying provided by the present invention, the rotating scraper includes a connecting rod, a scraper connector, a first scraper body, and a second scraper body. One end of the connecting rod is fixed to the rotating main shaft. The scraper connector is connected to the end of the connecting rod away from the rotating main shaft via a hole-shaft connection, so that the scraper connector can rotate at the end of the connecting rod away from the rotating main shaft. The first scraper body is connected to the scraper connector. There are two second scraper bodies, which are respectively hinged to both sides of the first scraper body, and a torsion spring is provided at the hinge. Under the action of the torsion spring, the two second scraper bodies and the first scraper body can switch between a straight line arrangement and an arc arrangement. Both the first scraper body and the second scraper body are equipped with silicone scrapers for contacting the inner wall of the cylindrical cooking container.

[0007] According to the segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying provided by the present invention, the lever mechanism includes a directional disc, a drive gear, a gear nut, a threaded lever, a first lever, and a second lever. The directional disc is fixedly mounted on the rotating main shaft, and the directional disc has multiple directional holes distributed circumferentially. The drive gear is rotatably mounted on the rotating main shaft, and the output shaft of the motor meshes with the drive gear to provide power to the drive gear. The gear nut meshes with the drive gear and is coaxial with the directional holes on the directional disc. The threaded lever passes through the directional holes on the directional disc and the nut hole of the gear nut. The first lever is connected to the scraper connector. The two ends of the second lever are respectively hinged to the first lever and the threaded lever via ball joints.

[0008] According to the segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying provided by the present invention, the lever mechanism further includes an independently adjusting gear and a DC geared motor. The independently adjusting gear is connected to the DC geared motor to obtain power. The independently adjusting gear has a nut structure inside. A threaded lever is inserted inside the independently adjusting gear. The threaded lever is connected to the rotating scraper at the upper end of the rotating main shaft through the first lever and the second lever.

[0009] According to the segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying provided by the present invention, the rotating main shaft is composed of multiple hollow shafts connected together, one of which is a hollow through shaft and the rest are hollow stepped shafts. The hollow through shaft and the hollow stepped shaft are sequentially connected to form the complete rotating main shaft.

[0010] According to the segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying provided by the present invention, the outer diameter of the rotating main shaft composed of multiple hollow shafts is the same everywhere.

[0011] According to the segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying provided by the present invention, one end of the hollow stepped shaft extends out from the hollow through shaft, and a drive device is fixedly connected to the part of the hollow stepped shaft extending out of the hollow through shaft, and a drive device is also connected to the hollow through shaft.

[0012] According to the segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying provided by the present invention, a plurality of rotating scrapers connected to the rotating main shaft are spirally distributed along the axial and circumferential directions of the rotating main shaft, and a plurality of rotating scrapers are connected to each segment of the hollow shaft.

[0013] According to the segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying provided by the present invention, a plurality of proximity switches are provided on the rotating main shaft. Each proximity switch includes a proximity switch sensing element and a proximity switch switching element. The proximity switch sensing element and the proximity switch switching element are respectively provided at the connection points of the hollow through shaft and the hollow stepped shaft that constitute the rotating main shaft.

[0014] The present invention also provides a control method for a segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying, suitable for the aforementioned segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying. The rotating scraper is rotated in segments by the pull rod mechanism to achieve segmented independent control, so as to adjust the multiple rotating scrapers at different angles. By presenting different angles of the rotating scrapers, the transmission speed and dwell speed at different stages of the stir-frying process can be controlled.

[0015] This invention provides a segmented independent stirring system and its control method for continuous stir-frying. A lever mechanism adjusts a rotating scraper to stir-fry and transfer food ingredients. The rotating scraper and lever mechanism control the residence time of ingredients in each area, precisely controlling and changing the stir-frying time and rate at each stage. Finally, the finished dish is output through the outlet. The entire process requires no manual intervention; simply set different recipes and adjust the amount of ingredients, heating temperature, and stir-frying time accordingly to automatically produce delicious dishes. This invention solves the problem of the rigid, mechanical stirring mechanism in existing Chinese cooking equipment, which makes it impossible to precisely control and change the stir-frying time and rate at each stage, resulting in poor taste and affecting the customer's experience. It achieves segmented adaptive adjustment of the scraper angle to control the stir-frying time and rate in segments. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in this invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0017] Figure 1 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying provided by the present invention;

[0018] Figure 2 This is the second schematic diagram of the segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying provided by the present invention;

[0019] Figure 3 This is the third schematic diagram of the segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying provided by the present invention;

[0020] Figure 4 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the rotating scraper provided by the present invention;

[0021] Figure 5 This is the second schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating scraper provided by the present invention;

[0022] Figure 6 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the proximity switch provided by the present invention;

[0023] Figure 7 This is the second schematic diagram of the proximity switch provided by the present invention;

[0024] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the feed inlet structure provided by the present invention;

[0025] Figure 9This is a schematic diagram of the stir-frying device including a segmented independent stirring system provided by the present invention;

[0026] Figure 10 This is a flowchart of the control method for a segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying provided by the present invention.

[0027] Figure label:

[0028] 1. Rotating scraper; 2. Cylindrical cooking container; 3. Rotating spindle; 4. Pull rod mechanism; 5. Motor; 6. Conductive slip ring;

[0029] 1-1. Connecting rod; 1-2. Scraper connector; 1-3. First scraper body; 1-4. Second scraper body;

[0030] 2-1. Feed inlet;

[0031] 3-1. Proximity switch sensing element; 3-2. Proximity switch switching element;

[0032] 4-1. Orientation disc; 4-2. Drive gear; 4-3. Gear nut; 4-4. Threaded tie rod; 4-5. First tie rod; 4-6. Second tie rod; 4-7. Independent adjustment gear. Detailed Implementation

[0033] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the technical solutions of this invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0034] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of the present invention. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0035] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of the present invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0036] In embodiments of the present invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0037] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0038] This invention provides a specific embodiment of a segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying, combined with... Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the device includes a rotating scraper 1, a lever mechanism 4, a motor 5, and a conductive slip ring 6. There are multiple rotating scrapers 1, which are installed on the rotating main shaft 3 of the cylindrical cooking container 2. The multiple rotating scrapers 1 are installed in sections on the rotating main shaft 3 to form a segmented stirring effect inside the cylindrical cooking container 2. The lever mechanism 4 is connected to the rotating scraper 1. The motor 5 is connected to the lever mechanism 4 and provides power to the lever mechanism 4. The conductive slip ring 6 is fixed on the rotating main shaft 3 and provides power to the motor 5.

[0039] Multiple rotating scrapers 1 connected to the rotating spindle 3 are spirally distributed along the axial and circumferential directions of the rotating spindle 3. Multiple rotating scrapers 1 are connected to each hollow shaft segment. The distribution of these scrapers 1 along the rotating spindle 3 divides the cylindrical cooking container 2 into several areas, such as a stir-frying area, a deep-frying area, and a serving area. Each area has multiple rotating scrapers 1. The angle of the rotating scrapers 1 is adjusted via a lever mechanism 4 to block the food being cooked. Different angles correspond to different blocking effects, thus controlling the residence time and transmission speed of the food in each area. Depending on the dish's requirements, the lever mechanism 4 can be set to pull the rotating scrapers 1 at different angles at different times, ultimately producing delicious dishes. The structural adjustments in this embodiment require the cooperation of automated equipment, such as a PLC controller to control each motor 5 to drive each lever mechanism 4. Each lever mechanism 4 pulls the rotating scrapers 1 to rotate at different angles. These actions can be preset on the PLC controller according to the dish. The program setting here is not the focus of this invention; existing mature technologies can achieve this, and it will not be described in detail here. In this embodiment, the lever mechanism 4 adjusts the rotating scraper 1 to stir-fry and transfer the food ingredients. The rotating scraper 1 and the lever mechanism 4 control the dwell time of the ingredients in each area, precisely control and change the stir-frying time and rate at each stage, and finally output the finished dish through the outlet. No manual intervention is required throughout the process. Just set different recipes and set different amounts of ingredients, heating temperatures and stir-frying times according to the recipes to automatically make delicious dishes.

[0040] This embodiment further describes the rotating scraper 1. In this embodiment, the rotating scraper 1 includes a connecting rod 1-1, a scraper connector 1-2, a first scraper body 1-3, and a second scraper body 1-4. One end of the connecting rod 1-1 is fixed to the rotating spindle 3. The scraper connector 1-2 is connected to the end of the connecting rod 1-1 away from the rotating spindle 3 via a hole-shaft connection, so that the scraper connector 1-2 can rotate at the end of the connecting rod 1-1 away from the rotating spindle 3. The first scraper body 1-3 is connected to the scraper connector 1-2. There are two second scraper bodies 1-4, which are respectively hinged to both sides of the first scraper body 1-3, and a torsion spring is provided at the hinge. Under the action of the torsion spring, the two second scraper bodies 1-4 and the first scraper body 1-3 can switch between a straight line arrangement and an arc arrangement. Silicone scrapers are installed on both the first scraper body 1-3 and the second scraper body 1-4 for contacting the inner wall of the cylindrical cooking container 2.

[0041] On the rotating main shaft 3, several cylindrical connecting rods 1-1 perpendicular to its axis are evenly installed. Each connecting rod 1-1 is designed with a hole-shaft insertion fit in its middle section. A scraper is installed at the end of each connecting rod 1-1. The connecting rod 1-1 is connected to the scraper connector 1-2 with a hole-shaft insertion fit. In this way, the scraper connector 1-2 can drive the first scraper body 1-3 and the second scraper body 1-4 to rotate at the end of the connecting rod 1-1. The scraper body is divided into three sections: one first scraper body 1-3 and two second scraper bodies 1-4. Each section is hinged and equipped with a torsion spring. When the scraper body is parallel to the axis of the cylindrical cooking container 2, the scraper body structure is as follows. Figure 5 As shown, the two second scraper bodies 1-4 remain parallel to the first scraper body 1-3 under the action of torsion springs. When there is an angle between the scraper body and the axis of the cylindrical cooking container 2, the scraper body structure is as follows. Figure 4 As shown, the outline of the lower edge of the scraper body gradually changes. The two second scraper bodies 1-4 are pressed downward by the inner wall of the cylindrical cooking container 2, fitting and adhering to the inner wall of the cylindrical cooking container 2 to avoid large gaps that could lead to insufficient material conveying and mixing. The scraper body is made of metal, and the diameter of the circular outline formed by the scraper body is smaller than the cross-sectional diameter of the cylindrical cooking container 2 to avoid abnormal noise and equipment damage caused by metal-to-metal friction. Three silicone scraper blades are installed along the outer edge of the scraper body, corresponding to each metal scraper base.

[0042] Based on the above embodiments, this embodiment further describes the lever mechanism 4, see [link to documentation]. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the lever mechanism 4 includes a directional disc 4-1, a drive gear 4-2, a gear nut 4-3, a threaded lever 4-4, a first lever 4-5, and a second lever 4-6. The directional disc 4-1 is fixedly mounted on the rotating spindle 3, and has multiple directional holes distributed circumferentially. The drive gear 4-2 is rotatably mounted on the rotating spindle 3, and the output shaft of the motor 5 meshes with the drive gear 4-2 to provide power to the drive gear 4-2. The gear nut 4-3 meshes with the drive gear 4-2 and is coaxial with the directional holes on the directional disc 4-1. The threaded lever 4-4 passes through the directional holes on the directional disc 4-1 and the nut hole of the gear nut 4-3. The first lever 4-5 is connected to the scraper connector 1-2. The two ends of the second lever 4-6 are respectively hinged to the first lever 4-5 and the threaded lever 4-4 via ball joints.

[0043] The interior of the cylindrical cooking container 2 can be divided into a stir-frying zone, a deep-frying zone, and a serving zone. Each of the stir-frying zone, deep-frying zone, and serving zone has a certain number of rotating scrapers 1 and corresponding lever mechanisms 4.

[0044] The last rotating scraper 1 in the first zone (stir-frying zone) is set to an adjustable angle, while the other rotating scrapers 1 in the stir-frying zone can be set to a fixed angle. The purpose of adjusting the angle of the last rotating scraper 1 is to adjust the residence time of the material in the stir-frying zone. When the angle between the scraper body of the last rotating scraper 1 and the axis of the rotating main shaft 3 is greater than that of the other rotating scrapers 1 in this zone, it will have a certain obstruction effect on the material. The larger the angle, the stronger the retention effect on the material, thereby realizing the adjustment of process parameters.

[0045] The second zone is divided into a stir-fry zone and a serving zone according to their processing functions. Generally, the temperature and induction heating power of the stir-fry zone are higher than other zones. Its purpose is to rapidly heat the ingredients, achieving the high-heat stir-fry effect commonly seen in Chinese cuisine. The serving zone has a lower temperature than the stir-fry zone, designed to maintain a certain temperature for the cooked dishes to be served. Similarly, the last rotating scraper 1 in the stir-fry zone is angle-adjustable to regulate the residence time of the material within the stir-fry zone. The multiple rotating scrapers 1 in the serving zone are designed to be synchronously adjustable to regulate the overall serving speed. Because the stir-fry zone and serving zone share a common rotating shaft, different material conveying speeds can be achieved on the same rotating shaft 3 by adjusting the angle between the scraper body and the axis of the rotating main shaft 3.

[0046] The rotating scraper 1, whose angle needs to be adjusted, works on the following principle: It is connected by three hinged rods, one end of which is connected to the rotating part of the scraper connector 1-2, and the other end is threaded. Rotating the mating gear nut 4-3 achieves the push-pull action of the rods, thereby realizing the rotational adjustment of the rotating scraper 1. (See [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 3 As shown, the first pull rod 4-5 is connected to the scraper connector 1-2. The first pull rod 4-5 is connected to the second pull rod 4-6 via a ball joint. The second pull rod 4-6 is connected to the threaded pull rod 4-4 via a ball joint. The threaded section of the threaded pull rod 4-4 is designed with a directional function to prevent deflection. This can be achieved by sliding the key strip through a slot or other measures to prevent the directional section (threaded section) from deflecting. Thus, when the nut rotates, the threaded section only achieves linear motion and does not rotate. In this embodiment, the threaded pull rod 4-4 passes through the directional hole on the directional disc 4-1 and the nut hole of the gear nut 4-3, realizing the directional reciprocating linear motion of the threaded pull rod 4-4. The reciprocating linear motion of the threaded section of the threaded pull rod 4-4 is transmitted to the scraper connector 1-2 through the connecting rod and the ball joint, thereby realizing the angle adjustment of the scraper body. The pull rod mechanism 4 needs to rotate synchronously with the rotating spindle 3, and the motor 5 needs to be energized in real time. Therefore, a conductive slip ring 6 is provided to keep the motor 5 energized during synchronous rotation.

[0047] See Figure 2As shown, a drive gear 4-2 is concentrically arranged with the rotating spindle 3, and multiple gear nuts 4-3 are arranged along its pitch circle. Each gear nut 4-3 corresponds to a threaded rod 4-4, and also to each rotating scraper 1 whose angle needs to be adjusted. The relative positions of the gear nuts 4-3 remain unchanged, and they can only maintain rotational motion under the rotation of the drive gear 4-2. The nut of each gear nut 4-3 engages with the threaded section of the threaded rod 4-4. When the gear nut 4-3 rotates, the threaded rod 4-4 can achieve telescopic movement.

[0048] The lever mechanism 4 also includes an independently adjusting gear 4-7 and a DC geared motor. The independently adjusting gear 4-7 is connected to the DC geared motor to obtain power. The independently adjusting gear 4-7 has a nut structure inside, and a threaded pull rod 4-4 passes through the independently adjusting gear 4-7. The threaded pull rod 4-4 is connected to the rotating scraper 1 at the upper end of the rotating main shaft 3 through a first pull rod 4-5 and a second pull rod 4-6. The last rotating scraper 1 in the stir-frying zone also needs to adjust its angle. The structure of its corresponding lever mechanism 4 is the same as that of other lever mechanisms 4. However, this lever mechanism 4 does not need to be driven by the motor 5 and the drive gear 4-2. It is mainly connected to the last rotating scraper 1 in the stir-frying zone by the independently adjusting gear 4-7 through a threaded pull rod 4-4, a first pull rod 4-5, and a second pull rod 4-6. The independently adjusting gear 4-7 is controlled by an independent DC geared motor, so that the angle of the last rotating scraper 1 in the stir-frying zone can be adjusted independently, thereby adjusting the residence time of the material in this area.

[0049] Since the rotating scraper 1 has a certain length, the pre-set scraper body can achieve an angle adjustment range of 0-90°. When the scraper body is adjusted to a certain angle range, there is a possibility that the two rotating scrapers 1 at the junction of the first and second zones in the above embodiment may interfere. To solve the possible interference problem between the scrapers at the junction of the two zones, an automatic anti-interference system needs to be set up. In this embodiment, multiple proximity switches are set on the rotating spindle 3. The proximity switches include proximity switch sensing element 3-1 and proximity switch element 3-2. Proximity switch sensing element 3-1 and proximity switch element 3-2 are respectively set at the connection of the hollow shafts that make up the adjacent rotating spindle 3. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, a proximity switch sensor 3-1 is installed at the shaft end of the second zone. This proximity switch sensor 3-1 forms a certain angle with the connecting rod 1-1 to be adjusted because adjusting the scraper inevitably requires a certain amount of time. A proximity switch 3-2 is installed at the shaft end of the first zone to detect the proximity switch sensor 3-1. There must be a speed difference between the first zone and the second zone. When the proximity switch 3-2 detects the proximity switch sensor 3-1, the first zone pull rod mechanism 4 controls the scraper body of the rotating scraper 1 to temporarily deflect at a certain angle to avoid the first rotating scraper 1 in the second zone, and then returns to the original angle, thus achieving scraper avoidance.

[0050] Because each scraper body is equipped with a torsion spring to automatically adapt to the curvature changes of the inner wall of the cylindrical cooking container 2 during rotation, when the scraper body moves to the opening area on the cylindrical cooking container 2, a portion of the scraper body may partially extend into the channel under the action of the torsion spring, thus creating new interference. Therefore, it is required that the transition between the channel and the opening area on the cylindrical cooking container 2 be made into a large-radius arc transition, see [reference needed]. Figure 8 As shown, the feed inlet 2-1 is connected to the cylindrical cooking container 2. The connection between the feed inlet 2-1 and the cooking container 1 is a transitional arc. This reduces the impact on the edge of the "raised" scraper body and prevents the silicone edge from breaking and falling off due to frequent impacts.

[0051] To facilitate the partitioning of the interior of the cylindrical cooking container 2, in this embodiment, see [link to embodiment]. Figure 1 As shown, the rotating main shaft 3 is composed of multiple hollow shafts connected together. A set of hollow shafts is arranged concentrically or parallel to the axis of the cylindrical cooking container 2, reducing the overall weight of the equipment while meeting bending resistance requirements. One hollow shaft is a through hollow shaft, while the remaining hollow shafts are stepped hollow shafts. The through hollow shaft and the stepped hollow shafts are sequentially connected to form the complete rotating main shaft 3, and the outer diameter of the rotating main shaft 3 formed by the connection is the same everywhere. The hollow shaft is divided into several segments, which are interlocked from left to right. The shaft starting from the second segment is a stepped hollow shaft, which is inserted into the left-side shaft one by one. After installation, the diameter of the outer cylindrical surface of the entire hollow shaft unit is the same everywhere, avoiding the formation of a stepped feature that could trap dirt. One end of the stepped hollow shaft protrudes from the through hollow shaft, and a drive device is fixedly connected to the part of the stepped hollow shaft protruding from the through hollow shaft. A drive device is also connected to the through hollow shaft. The drive unit has multiple sets, each set including a drive motor and a pulley. One end of the hollow stepped shaft extends out of the hollow through shaft, and a pulley is fixedly fitted on the part of the hollow stepped shaft that extends out of the hollow through shaft. A pulley is also fixedly fitted on the hollow through shaft. The drive motor transmits power to the pulleys through the belt.

[0052] This embodiment only designs two hollow shaft segments, but it is possible that the invention could incorporate more hollow shaft segments to meet multi-segment process requirements. For each segment of the hollow shaft, an independent induction heating coil is installed below the cylindrical cooking container 2, allowing for temperature regulation and control of different segments. In this embodiment, the two hollow shaft segments are arranged such that the left hollow shaft corresponds to the stir-frying area, while the right hollow shaft corresponds to the deep-frying and serving areas. Different induction heating coils are used to achieve temperature regulation and control in different areas. Each hollow shaft is driven to rotate by a separate pulley, achieving zoned control.

[0053] This invention provides a stir-frying apparatus that realizes continuous stir-frying by forming a segmented independent stirring system, see [link to related document]. Figure 9 As shown, the cooking container includes a cylindrical cooking container 2, a rotating spindle 3, rotating scrapers 1, a lever mechanism 4, an automatic feeding device, an induction heating coil, and a drive device. The cylindrical cooking container 2 has a feeding port 2-1 at one upper end and a food outlet at the other lower end. The rotating spindle 3 runs through the cylindrical cooking container 2 along its central axis, and is supported at both ends by bearing brackets. Multiple rotating scrapers 1 are connected to the rotating spindle 3 and distributed along its axial and circumferential directions. The lever mechanism 4 connects to the rotating scrapers 1 and adjusts their angle. The automatic feeding device is located above the feeding port 2-1 to add food ingredients to the cylindrical cooking container 2. Multiple induction heating coils are located below the cylindrical cooking container 2, distributed sequentially along the cylinder of the container and corresponding to different cooking zones. The drive device is connected to the rotating spindle 3 to provide power for its rotation.

[0054] The cylindrical cooking container 2 is equipped with multiple feed inlets 2-1. The automatic feeding device consists of multiple sets of belt scales and multiple liquid spray pipes. Each set of belt scales corresponds to one feed inlet 2-1, and the multiple liquid spray pipes are connected to the cylindrical cooking container 2 respectively.

[0055] Induction coils are concentrically arranged at certain intervals below the outer edge of the cylindrical cooking container 2, with different heating powers corresponding to the stir-frying, high-heating, and serving zones; see [link / reference] Figure 9 As shown, several feeding ports 2-1 are opened on the upper side of the cylindrical cooking container 2. The number of feeding ports 2-1 is preset according to the main ingredients (2-3 kinds) and auxiliary ingredients (scallions, ginger, garlic, etc.) of common dishes. In this embodiment, four feeding ports are set. The first feeding port 2-1 corresponds to the pre-mixed scallions, ginger, and garlic; the second feeding port 2-1 corresponds to the main ingredients, such as sliced ​​meat; and the third and fourth feeding ports 2-1 correspond to other auxiliary ingredients of dishes. Multiple materials are continuously and dynamically weighed by a belt scale to ensure that the materials delivered at any time are strictly proportioned according to the dish recipe. Multiple liquid spray pipes are set on the side of the cylindrical cooking container 2 for continuously spraying liquid additives into the cylindrical cooking container 2, such as continuously spraying hot oil into the sautéing area and continuously spraying light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, etc. into the stir-frying area.

[0056] This embodiment allows for a certain adjustment to the angle of the cylindrical cooking container 2. (See [link]) Figure 9As shown, one end of the cylindrical cooking container 2 is hinged to a support, and a hydraulic cylinder is also hinged to the support. The piston rod of the hydraulic cylinder is connected to the support and the cylindrical cooking container 2 through a scissor mechanism. The scissor mechanism includes two connecting rods. One connecting rod is hinged to the piston rod of the hydraulic cylinder and the support at both ends, and the other connecting rod is hinged to the piston rod of the hydraulic cylinder and the cylindrical cooking container 2 at both ends. By pushing or pulling the scissor device under the cylindrical cooking container 2 through the hydraulic cylinder, the cylindrical cooking container 2 can be tilted at a certain angle to adjust the material conveying speed at a certain ratio. The cylindrical cooking container 2 will rotate around the hinge seat at the lower left of the cylindrical cooking container 2. Some dishes release water during cooking, and the juice needs to be separated in the process. If the cylindrical cooking container 2 is kept horizontal, the juice may not be able to be pushed out in time by the stirring of the rotating scraper 1. The residue or backflow of juice will have a significant impact on the dish. Therefore, by tilting the cylindrical cooking container 2, the juice can flow out slowly. A perforated sieve plate can be installed to separate the juice from the food. This embodiment will not be described in detail here. Furthermore, the tilt adjustment of the cylindrical cooking container 2 has an advantage during online CIP cleaning, as the wastewater from the high-pressure spray can be discharged from the pot more easily.

[0057] To facilitate quick disassembly of the wok spindle during maintenance and cleaning, this embodiment incorporates a quick-release design. The drive unit and bearing bracket are fixed to the quick-release device, which includes a frame, a rotating tray, and a sliding tray. One end of the rotating tray is connected to the frame via a rotating pin, allowing the rotating tray to rotate around the pin. A reset pin is also inserted between the rotating tray and the frame, enabling relative fixation and rotation between the rotating tray and the frame through the insertion and removal of the reset pin. The drive unit and bearing bracket are fixed to the sliding tray, which is slidably connected to the rotating tray, allowing the sliding tray to slide along the direction of approaching and moving away from the cylindrical cooking container 2. A handle is provided on the sliding tray; pulling the handle causes the drive unit and bearing bracket to move backward, disengaging the first-section spindle and the second-section stepped shaft. Pulling up the reset pin (which is a reset pin consisting of a pin shaft and a spring) allows the rotating tray and the frame to rotate relative to each other. The rotating tray, along with the sliding tray, the drive device, and the bearing bracket on it, can swing to one side around the rotating pin, providing space for pulling out the first zone rotating spindle 3 and enabling quick disassembly. Alternatively, a hollow drive shaft can be splined to the ends of the first zone spindle and the second zone stepped shaft facing the bearing bracket. A pulley is mounted on the hollow drive shaft, and its rotation drives the hollow drive shaft. The hollow drive shaft, through the spline, drives the first zone spindle or the second zone stepped shaft to rotate, thus transmitting power. In this structure, when quick disassembly is needed, pulling the handle on the sliding tray disengages the hollow drive shaft from the first zone spindle or the second zone stepped shaft at the spline. The drive device, bearing bracket, and hollow drive shaft can then be pulled out as a whole. Rotation allows for easier positioning and removal of the first zone spindle or the second zone stepped shaft, as well as the rotating scraper 1, for replacement.

[0058] To maximize the preservation of wok hei (the smoky aroma) and the flavor of the ingredients, the stir-frying device also includes a flue pipe connected to the cylindrical cooking container 2. An adjustable damper is installed on the flue pipe in the stir-frying zone to regulate the exhaust flow. To increase the heat capacity of the stir-frying zone, a thickened pot body can be welded to the outer edge of the second stir-frying zone of the cylindrical cooking container 2. This prevents significant temperature fluctuations in the stir-frying zone as the ingredients are transported from the front, while still storing a large amount of heat.

[0059] The present invention also provides a control method for a segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying, which is suitable for the above-mentioned segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying. The rotating scraper 1 is rotated by the lever mechanism 4 to adjust the angle of the rotating scraper 1. By presenting different angles of the rotating scraper 1, the transmission speed and dwell speed at different stages of the stir-frying process can be controlled.

[0060] Specifically, see Figure 10 As shown,

[0061] Step 1: Initialize the temperature of different zones in the cylindrical cooking container 2, the time distribution of cooking dishes in different zones, and other parameters. That is, set the temperature parameters of the stir-frying zone, the quick-frying zone, and the serving zone based on experience, and set the time for cooking dishes to stay in each of the above zones.

[0062] Step 2: Power on both the motor 5 of the lever mechanism 4 of the segmented independent stirring system and the DC geared motor, and initialize the angle of the rotating scraper 1 in different zones (stir-fry zone, stir-fry zone, and serving zone) through the lever mechanism 4.

[0063] Step 3: Use test materials to test whether the angle of the rotating scraper 1 adjusted in Step 2 can guarantee the preset residence time of the material in different zones (stir-fry zone, stir-fry zone, and serving zone) during the mixing process; if it meets the requirements, proceed to the next step; if it does not meet the requirements, return to Step 2 and readjust the angle of the rotating scraper 1 through the lever mechanism 4.

[0064] Step 4: Start the stir-fry program. Pour different ingredients into the cylindrical cooking container 2 in sequence and stir-fry the dish in different sections.

[0065] Step 5: Combining sensory evaluation, based on the color, doneness, and other quality information of the cooked dish, determine the quality grade of the dish cooked by the stir-frying device;

[0066] Step Six: Determine the match between the stir-fry result and the chef's stir-fry, and whether it meets the consumer's needs. If it does, proceed to the next step; if not, return to Step One and readjust the preset parameters.

[0067] Step 7: Record and save the cooking parameter data from Step 6, which meets consumer demand, and output the dish product.

[0068] In summary, this invention provides a segmented independent stirring system and its control method for continuous stir-frying. The rotating scraper is adjusted via a lever mechanism to stir-fry and transfer the ingredients. The rotating scraper and lever mechanism control the dwell time of the ingredients in each area, precisely controlling and changing the stir-frying time and rate at each stage. Finally, the finished dish is output through the outlet. The entire process requires no manual intervention; simply setting different recipes and adjusting the amount of ingredients, heating temperature, and stir-frying time accordingly allows for the automatic production of delicious dishes. This solves the problem of the rigid, mechanical stir-frying mechanism in existing Chinese cooking equipment, which makes it impossible to precisely control and change the stir-frying time and rate at each stage, resulting in poor final product taste and affecting the customer's experience. The invention achieves segmented adaptive adjustment of the scraper angle to control the stir-frying time and rate in segments.

[0069] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying, characterized in that, include: A rotating scraper (1), there are multiple rotating scrapers (1), which are installed on the rotating main shaft (3) of the cylindrical cooking container (2); the rotating scraper (1) includes a connecting rod (1-1) and a scraper connector (1-2), the connecting rod (1-1) is fixed to the rotating main shaft (3), and the scraper connector (1-2) is rotatably connected to the connecting rod (1-1); A pull rod mechanism (4) is connected to the rotating scraper (1); the pull rod mechanism (4) includes a drive gear (4-2), a gear nut (4-3) and a threaded pull rod (4-4). The drive gear (4-2) is rotatably mounted on the rotating spindle (3). The gear nut (4-3) has a gear structure on the outside that meshes with the drive gear (4-2) and a nut structure on the inside. The threaded pull rod (4-4) passes through the nut hole of the gear nut (4-3). The motor (5) is connected to the drive gear (4-2) of the lever mechanism (4) to provide power to the lever mechanism (4); The rotating scrapers (1) connected to the rotating main shaft (3) are spirally distributed along the axial and circumferential directions of the rotating main shaft (3), and the rotating scrapers (1) are installed in sections on the rotating main shaft (3) to form segmented stirring in the cylindrical cooking container (2); each motor (5) drives each lever mechanism (4) to pull the rotating scraper (1) to rotate at different angles to stir-fry and transfer the ingredients. The rotating scrapers (1) and the lever mechanism (4) control the residence time of the ingredients in each area, and control and change the stir-frying time and rate at each stage.

2. The segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rotating scraper (1) also includes: The first scraper body (1-3) is connected to the scraper connector (1-2); The second scraper body (1-4) is movably connected to the first scraper body (1-3) via a torsion spring.

3. The segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying according to claim 2, characterized in that, The lever mechanism (4) also includes: A threaded tie rod (4-4) passes through the nut hole of the gear nut (4-3); The first pull rod (4-5) is connected to the scraper connector (1-2); The second pull rod (4-6) has the first pull rod (4-5) and the threaded pull rod (4-4) respectively hinged at both ends.

4. The segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying according to claim 3, characterized in that, The lever mechanism (4) further includes an independent adjusting gear (4-7) and a DC geared motor. The independent adjusting gear (4-7) is connected to the DC geared motor to obtain power. The independent adjusting gear (4-7) has a nut structure inside. A threaded lever (4-4) passes through the independent adjusting gear (4-7). The threaded lever (4-4) is connected to the rotating scraper (1) at the upper end of the rotating spindle (3) through the first lever (4-5) and the second lever (4-6).

5. The segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The rotating spindle (3) is composed of multiple hollow shafts connected together, one of which is a hollow through shaft and the rest are hollow stepped shafts. The hollow through shaft and the hollow stepped shaft are connected in sequence to form the complete rotating spindle (3).

6. The segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying according to claim 5, characterized in that, The outer diameter of the rotating spindle (3), which is composed of multiple hollow shafts, is the same everywhere.

7. The segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying according to claim 6, characterized in that, One end of the hollow stepped shaft extends out of the hollow through shaft, and a drive device is fixedly connected to the part of the hollow stepped shaft that extends out of the hollow through shaft. A drive device is also connected to the hollow through shaft.

8. The segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying according to claim 7, characterized in that, The multiple rotating scrapers (1) connected to the rotating main shaft (3) are spirally distributed along the axial and circumferential directions of the rotating main shaft (3), and multiple rotating scrapers (1) are connected to each section of the hollow shaft.

9. The segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying according to claim 8, characterized in that, The rotating spindle (3) is provided with a plurality of proximity switches, each proximity switch including a proximity switch sensor (3-1) and a proximity switch switch (3-2). The proximity switch sensor (3-1) and the proximity switch switch (3-2) are respectively provided at the connection points of the hollow shafts that make up the rotating spindle (3).

10. A control method for a segmented independent stirring system for continuous stir-frying, characterized in that, A segmented independent stirring system suitable for continuous stir-frying as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising: The rotating scraper (1) is rotated in segments by the lever mechanism (4) to achieve segmented independent control, so as to adjust the multiple rotating scrapers (1) at different angles. The transmission speed and dwell speed at different stages of the stir-frying process are controlled by the different angles of the rotating scrapers (1).

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